Earlier on Monday (September 26) Francois Hollande promised to close the camp where between seven and ten-thousand people live, many in squalid conditions in ramshackle huts.

“If we want to ensure human dignity, solidarity and protection, we must dismantle the camp of Calais because it’s in accordance with the principles of the Republic, because it’s in everybody’s interest,” Hollande said.

‘‘I also want to reiterate my determination to see the British authorities play their part in the humanitarian effort which France has been doing here and will continue to do,’‘ added Hollande.